A vicar who was stabbed to death in his home may have invited his killer into
the vicarage, it emerged yesterday.

A 43-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of the Rev John Suddards, 59, found dead by builders in the picturesque market town of Thornbury, South Gloucesteshire, on Tuesday. He had been stabbed several times.

The Archdeacon of Gloucester, the Ven Geoffrey Sidaway, who paid tribute to Mr Suddards, vicar of St Mary’s, said the murder highlighted the risks faced by clergy. He said: “Many clergy on a daily basis open their homes and churches to people and clearly that can put them in a vulnerable position.”

Police investigating the killing were at a second church in the town last night. Forensics officers armed with evidence bags entered the Roman Catholic Church of Christ the King, after reports of a man spotted wandering around the premises. One officer was seen taking photographs around the site, while both entrances to the church were locked.

A source close to the church said: “There was somebody seen in the church. There are always vagrants around looking for money and one thing and another.” Avon and Somerset Police said investigations were ongoing.

Earlier yesterday, Det Ch Insp Simon Crisp appealed for witnesses or anyone who saw Mr Suddards on Monday to come forward. He said: “The reverend had only been here a few months and we don’t have a great understanding of his friends and family at the moment.

“We are appealing for people who knew him to come forward. We are keen to speak to anyone who saw him after 12.30pm on Monday.

“We are determined to bring whoever is responsible for his death to justice and have a team of officers working on this investigation around the clock.”

Rev Suddards, who lived alone, leaves a sister, Hilary Bosworth, a brother-in-law, two nieces and a nephew. Mrs Bosworth, a charity worker, said: “My family and I have been devastated to learn of John’s untimely and shocking death.”